Does Acute Conjunctivitis Cause Increased Eye Prescription Changes? - Ophthalmology

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Acute conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelids. This condition can be caused by various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergens, or irritants. When it comes to your question about whether acute conjunctivitis can lead to changes in eye prescription, particularly an increase in refractive error, the answer is nuanced.

Firstly, it is important to understand that acute conjunctivitis itself does not directly cause a change in the refractive error of the eye. Refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness), are typically stable conditions that are determined by the shape of the eyeball, the curvature of the cornea, and the flexibility of the lens. However, the symptoms associated with acute conjunctivitis can lead to temporary changes in vision that may affect the accuracy of a refraction test.

During an episode of acute conjunctivitis, patients often experience symptoms such as redness, tearing, discharge, and discomfort in the affected eye. These symptoms can lead to a phenomenon known as "refraction variability." When the eye is inflamed or irritated, the cornea may swell slightly, and the tear film may be disrupted. This can cause fluctuations in vision, making it difficult to obtain an accurate measurement of refractive error during an eye exam. Consequently, if you were to have your eyes tested during an active infection, the results might not reflect your true prescription.

In your case, the increase in prescription from -12.00 to -12.50 in the left eye and from -12.00 to -13.75 in the right eye could be influenced by the acute conjunctivitis you experienced. It is possible that the inflammation and discomfort caused by the conjunctivitis led to temporary changes in your vision, resulting in a higher prescription reading. Therefore, it is advisable to wait until the conjunctivitis has resolved and your eyes have returned to their normal state before undergoing another refraction test. This will provide a more accurate assessment of your true refractive error.

Additionally, if you have a history of high myopia, it is essential to monitor any changes in your vision closely. High myopia can be associated with various ocular complications, including retinal detachment and glaucoma. Regular eye examinations are crucial to ensure that any potential issues are detected early and managed appropriately.

In summary, while acute conjunctivitis does not directly cause an increase in eye prescription, the symptoms associated with the condition can lead to temporary changes in vision that may affect refractive measurements. It is recommended to wait until the inflammation subsides before having your eyes re-evaluated for a more accurate prescription. If you have ongoing concerns about your vision or the changes in your prescription, it is best to consult with your eye care professional for further evaluation and guidance.